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| Dubai World’s restructured bank debt |
State-owned conglomerate Dubai World got the go-ahead from 99% of creditors in September for a restructuring of $14.4 billion in bank debt. Nakheel, the group’s main real estate developer, later announced that it expected to receive approval by the end of the year for its plan, which is being negotiated alongside the parent’s restructuring. Nakheel owes $5.1 billion to trade contractors and $9.2 billion to customers, as well as $10.9 billion to financial creditors, according to Reuters. The terms of Dubai World’s deal are the same as those announced in late May. All outstanding bank debt is expected to convert into two new tranches, with 30% maturing in five years and 70% maturing in eight years. Interest varies according to the maturity, currency, and the various options creditors are given.
Fair value
All rates are below market level, leading analysts to call the deal a success for the borrower. After Dubai World’s announcement, JPMorgan raised its fair-value estimate on the group’s debt from 44-46 cents in the dollar to 53-55 cents.
Dubai World’s ability to meet the new terms will depend on revenues from core subsidiaries such as ports operator DP World.
